How do you take care of elderly feet?

 

Our bodies have 206 bones and 52 of those bones are in our feet. The job our feet do is complicated as well. They support our body weight, which adds up to tons of pressure every day as we move around. They push us forwards, act as shock absorbers and even provide our brain with information about the position of our bodies, whish is so necessary for good balance.

Normal changes of aging are partly to blame:

  • the fatty cushion of padding in our feet thins
  • the arches flatten
  • joints grow stiffer
  • the skin is drier
  • toenails become more brittle
  • our feet even change shape, growing flatter and longer

Common health conditions also affect our feet:

  • osteoporosis
  • obesity
  • arthritis
  • blood circulation problems
  • diabetes

The 7 Golden rules for Senior feet!

  1. Inspect feet regularly, possibly with a mirror. Look for cuts, redness, swelling, blisters, sores and any changes to nails or skin.
  2. Trim toenails straights across and smooth with an emery board. If toenails are thick or you have a fungal infection or diabetes, it's best to have the medical pedicurist trim your nails.
  3. Apply lotion to the feet as recommended to prevent cracks and calluses. Don't apply between the toes, that could lead to infection.
  4. Always wear clean, dry socks. Padded socks also may be recommended.
  5. Wear properly fitted shoes. Have shoes professionally fitted.
  6. If in doubt, please contact your doctor or medical pedicurist.
  7. Exercise your feet. Stretches and resistance activities can make feet stronger and more flexible. 

As we grow older, it can be much harder to follow the above tips. Inspecting the feet, trimming the nails can be difficult when a senior has vision loss, reduced flexibility, dementia or other health problems. 

Visit your medical pedicurist regularly for foot checks. Your medical pedicurist can catch problems like bone spurs, hammertoe, neuromas, bunions, calluses, corns, ingrown toenails or wounds before they cause more serious problems. Medical pedicurist can refer you to a specialist in time for further examination.